But they would forever have my gratitude. Yet, in that moment, the anger & overwhelming shared grief left me almost numb. Trying to comprehend the loss of so many from one Battalion, one Company, one community. Knowing my family’s sacrifice counted but paled … still left me angry. /5
Then one by one, family members who my Marine had notified came to thank my young son and me for the sacrifice we made - living states away from him during his deployments. They expressed their deep gratitude for the strength and comfort our Marine afforded them on the worst day of their lives. /6
They had not yet buried their loved one. And they thanked the Marine who told them he was not coming home and sought out that Marine’s family to thank them. Months later, they would invite us to their home for dinner and have gifts waiting for us. Can you imagine? /7
They were THANKING the family of the person who told them their child wasn’t coming home. Not just once but many times. Not just with words, but food, compassion, and gifts. That’s what a great nation should do for those who serve: while they serve and afterward. /8
We should ensure they can afford & access basics like food, shelter, and healthcare. Not take away their jobs, deport their families, and close hospitals. We should be THANKING them in every way. Remind your electeds: that’s what it means to #HonorOurVeterans
The reality is the wars are not some noble conflict they are short term money grabs started by desperate politicians as a means to hold power. Through this lens it's obvious why veterans get shafted. Service people were just cannon fodder for these people.